Mark and Me Podcast Episode 433: Jerry Cantrell (Alice in Chains)
May 12, 2025
Joined by Jerry Cantrell, the iconic guitarist and songwriter of Alice in Chains, the discussion dives into his formative musical experiences and the spirit of the Seattle music scene. He reflects on the pressures and triumphs surrounding the band's 35th anniversary, revealing the balance between creative vision and commercial success. Jerry also shares insights about his solo projects, the anticipation for upcoming tours, and the magical connection between music and film, making for a captivating conversation filled with nostalgia and artistic passion.
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First Record Sparked A Love Of Music
- Jerry Cantrell's first personal record was Elton John's Greatest Hits, given by his father.
- That gift sparked his early fascination with music and songwriting.
Black Sabbath Shaped His Live Ambition
- His first big live show was Black Sabbath's Heaven and Hell tour, which made a deep impression.
- He remembers Ronnie James Dio interacting with him and creating a formative performer-audience moment.
Quit College To Learn On The Road
- Jerry quit college at 19 and moved to Texas to pursue music, learning from better players and absorbing skills.
- He treated that period as a committed experiment: succeed or crash, but give it his all.